L-theanine–a popular amino acid extracted from tea leaves–promotes natural sleep and reduces stress disorders like anxiety. People who want to use it to improve their sleep quality should use the dose that is recommended to them by healthcare professionals.
Although there isn’t a generally agreed-upon dosage, evidence suggests that a dose of between one hundred and 400 milligrams of L-theanine can boost your sleep naturally.
Taking the appropriate amount of L-theanine helps you avoid possible side effects like lethargy. Does L-theanine give you weird dreams? Although there’s no scientific evidence to prove this, some people claim that L-theanine gives them vivid dreams that disrupt their sleep. This is why you should carefully regulate the amount of L-theanine you take.
Factors That Determine How Much L-Theanine to Take
There are several things you need to consider when figuring out the right dose of L-theanine for you, including:
Why You Want to Use It
Does L-theanine help sleep or blood pressure? Does L-theanine work for anxiety? The reason you want to take L-theanine will determine the dose you should take to get the desired effect. Studies have explored doses of 200 to 400 milligrams of L-theanine for their potential to promote a mild calming effect. The exact response can vary depending on the individual.
Your Level of Tolerance
Your tolerance levels depend on several factors including your body’s sensitivity to L-theanine and the frequency of usage. Some people are more sensitive to L-theanine and need lower doses for the desired effect.
Over time, the body may adjust to the effects of supplements like L-theanine. Some individuals may begin with lower doses, such as 100 milligrams, to gauge their body’s response before considering any adjustments based on their experience.
When You Take L-Theanine
The time of day you want to use L-theanine can determine the amount you should take. If you want to boost your sleep at night, take a dose about an hour before you go to bed. This gives your body enough to metabolize the amino acid.
So, how long does L-theanine last? How long you feel the effects of the supplement depends on many factors, including the dosage, your metabolism, and whether you took it with a meal or on an empty stomach.
The Form of L-Theanine
There are two common forms of L-theanine you can consume: tea and pills. The L-theanine content in tea is often lower than in pills. Some people prefer pill form because the exact amount of L-theanine can be better regulated.
In Conclusion
Although L-theanine is largely safe, individual reactions can vary. If you need further assistance and advice on how to enhance sleep naturally, check out Optimal Circadian Health’s resources and guides today!
Dylan Petkus, MD, MPH, MS
Dr. Dylan Petkus is on a mission to help people overcome their health issues like sleep apnea so they are not limited by their condition or trapped by options that don’t provide full resolution.
He earned his Master’s of Science in Physiology at Pennsylvania State University where he was awarded a research fellowship and was a peer-reviewed published author. He went on to earn both his Master’s in Public Health and Medical Degree from the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine. Thereafter, he specialized in Family Medicine to help patients on the front-line of chronic disease.
Having overcome his own health challenges, including sleep apnea, he strives to help empower others to live fuller, healthier lives.